How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel Table Legs?
There's nothing more irritating than noticing that your favorite stainless steel furniture has been attacked by rust. Don't worry, rust is an easy problem to fix. Just a quick rummage in the kitchen will reveal some simple rust removal supplies that can help you quickly remove rust from stainless steel tables or sofa legs.
What is Rust and What Causes It?
When stainless steel is exposed to oxygen and moisture in the air, the metal forms rust, turning the surface of the metal orange-brown and becoming powdery and sometimes pitted. While rust can detract from the appearance of furniture, it doesn't necessarily mean you need to throw the item away, removing the rust and getting your metal furniture legs looking new again is easier than you might think.
How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel Furniture Legs?
There are a variety of ways to dust your furniture, here are our favorites. Some of these methods are really easy to use, while others require more elbow grease and toughness. We recommend trying one or more natural rust removal methods first - before introducing harsh chemicals.
Method 1: Use Salt and Lemon
A really effective natural way to remove rust from metal furniture legs is to use lemon and a lot of salt. The salt acts as an abrasive, while the citric acid in the lemon creates a chemical reaction that helps remove stubborn rust. Squeeze lemon juice into a bowl, add plenty of salt and apply the mixture to the rusted area. Let the mixture work for a few hours, then rub it off with an abrasive kitchen sponge to restore lost shine.
Method 2: Use Baking Soda
Most of us have a baking soda bucket in our kitchen, but did you know it's very effective at removing rust from the surfaces of metal furniture legs? Just mix it with water (or hydrogen peroxide for hard rust) to make a thick paste. Gently apply this acid solution to rusted metal surfaces with a cleaning cloth and let it work for about 15-20 minutes. Next, scrub the area with steel wool or an abrasive scrubber until the rust particles are removed. You may need to repeat the process a few times, depending on the severity of the rust.
Method 3: Use White Vinegar
Vinegar is a very effective natural cleanser due to its acidic and antibacterial properties. Add a pinch of salt to increase its acidic strength and create a stronger rust removal solution. To remove rust from furniture legs, you need to rinse with vinegar and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then use a scrubber and an old rag to wipe it off with the dissolved rust.
Method 4: Use Potatoes
Potatoes contain oxalic acid, which actually dissolves rust, and it can be used to remove dirty brown rust from the legs of metal furniture. You need to cut the potato in half and add some salt or dish soap to the surface, then rub the potato on the rusted surface to start a chemical reaction that will weaken the rust. Once you've worked on the entire surface of the furniture, you can wipe it down with an old rag.
Method 5: Use Coke
Did you now know that this soda can be used to remove stubborn rust from stainless steel furniture legs? Coke's carbonation properties make it ideal for dissolving metal oxides. Just pour Coke over a rusted surface, let it work for a few minutes, then wipe it clean with a soft cloth or sponge.
Method 6: Use Aluminum Foil
Aluminium foil can be used to remove rust from iron and stainless/chromed steel. Aluminum reacts with rust to form a material that can be easily wiped off. Start by making a salt and water mixture, then dip a ball of kneaded aluminum foil into the solution and rub it on the rusted surface. This helps loosen rust residue. Finally, wipe off any rust residue with a clean cloth.
Method 7: Use a Mild Cleanser
One of the easiest ways to remove rust is to catch it early and wipe it away before the early signs of wear become a threat. All you need is a cleaner that works on metal surfaces and old rags. Spray directly or lightly apply the agent to rusted surfaces with a cloth. Now wipe the entire surface thoroughly with the cloth. The rust will start to turn reddish brown and will slowly come off with continued rubbing. Wipe damp areas with a clean dry cloth to remove moisture.
Method 8: Use Abrasives Such As Steel Wool
Use a wire brush or steel wool to gently scrub the affected area to remove flakes of rust. If your furniture legs are painted, you need to be extra careful not to accidentally remove the paint in the process (although if the rust problem is severe, you may need to strip the paint completely and put it back on the bare metal before repainting Before).
Method 9: Use a Commercial Rust Remover
If your furniture legs are particularly rusted, you may need to turn to a commercial rust remover from a DIY store. Because these are chemical components, they are very effective at removing rust, although you will need to take proper safety precautions such as wearing gloves and goggles when using them. The method of application varies by product, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly to avoid damaging the furniture surface.
Depending on how badly your metal furniture legs are rusted, removing rust can be a fairly quick and straightforward job, although some methods require more elbow grease and patience than others. We recommend trying one or more natural rust removals
The above briefly introduces the method of removing rust on stainless steel furniture legs. If you want to buy high-quality metal furniture legs, please contact us.
Wekis is a professional custom furniture hardware manufacturer. Our furniture legs are made of high-quality hardware materials and have a strong load-bearing capacity. The surface is powder-coated, odorless and environmentally friendly. Not easy to deform, safe and durable, long service life. Thoughtful Design and Complete Accessories: Products are available in 19 custom sizes to suit your needs. We provide all necessary hardware accessories.